Tony Ferguson within touching distance of lightweight title shot after record breaking win over Rafael dos Anjos at UFC Fight Night 98

Tony Ferguson became the first lightweight in the history of the UFC to record nine wins in a row after a statement victory over former champion Rafael dos Anjos at Fight Night 98 in Mexico.

The 32-year-old is now firmly in contention for a shot at the title after accumulating an unrivaled record in the division and should be next in line to challenge for the belt.

Current champion Eddie Alvarez has the small matter of defeating featherweight king Conor McGregor at UFC 205 on November 12, but Ferguson could conceivably face either of the fighters once a winner is decided in New York.

Rafael Dos Anjos began well (Picture: Getty)

Ferguson began to take hold though (Picture: Getty)

Ferguson picked up his second successive Fight of the Night, and a $50,000 bonus in the process as he and Dos Anjos went to war in the octagon with a five round belter.

The clash was made epic by Ferguson’s refusal to back off as he took every punch and shot Dos Anjos had and returned a slew of unconventional, but punishing strikes in return.

Kicks, elbows, knees, spinning back fists, this fight had it all as Ferguson recovered from Dos Anjos’ solid start and pummeled the former champion.

The stand up fight was full of different shots (Picture: Getty)

Dos Anjos almost buckled under a powerful knee shot in the fourth (Picture: Getty)

A knee had Dos Anjos rattled in the fourth before a right hook almost brought the Brazilian down.

The scorecards all read 48-47 after the fight with Dos Anjos’ reaction showing no complaints as Ferguson was announced the winner.

Fergsuon declined to say much after the victory, deciding just to thank the crowd while Dos Anjos was extremely gracious in defeat.